Let’s Eat Out! 45 Outdoor Kitchen and Patio Design Ideas

An outdoor patio is frequently viewed as an extension of the indoor living space. A kitchen is the coziest space in a home and we all love gathering together there and eating something delicious. But summer is time of enjoying fresh air and sunlight mostly in gardens and patios. Dining al fresco is only half the fun — things really heat up when you bring the entire cooking experience outside. Cooking in an outdoor kitchen is a great way to take advantage of the sunshine, fresh air, and your homegrown vegetables and herbs. Set your sights on the gorgeous details within these outdoor kitchens, and get inspired to design something similar for your own backyard. Stumped about how to start designing an outdoor kitchen?

Let these 45 Outdoor Kitchens and Patios Design Ideas guide you – and get you cooking outside. See how to incorporate not only a grill but also other kitchen necessities, such as a sink, refrigerator, and more.

Tips for the best Outdoor Kitchens

Choose the best location

Whether it’s comprised of stone, brick or concrete, this paved area is frequently used as a socializing location, especially when there’s a grill or fire pit present. Throw in an outdoor kitchen and dining set and it can also become your favorite eating spot, and an abundance of furniture and colorful zen patio decor turns it into the perfect sunny lounge.

Select durable materials

Outdoor kitchen surfaces must be able to withstand your climate’s weather conditions. Select durable materials such as stainless steel, shown here, and stone, slate, tile, or stucco, Make sure all countertop surfaces and hardware are recommended for exterior use. If you want to install a kitchen on an existing deck, verify that it structurally can support the kitchen’s additional weight before you build.

Plan as an interior one

An outdoor kitchen is as important to plan as an interior one. Along with picking the right grill and countertop, plan for storage and organizational necessities, such as pullout trash and recycling bins, and baskets to hold napkins, glasses, and cleaning supplies.

Place a few pots of often-used herbs

An outdoor kitchen gives an opportunity to enjoy staying outdoors not only while eating but also while cooking meals. Place a few pots of often-used herbs, tomatoes, peppers, and more near your cooking prep space for ready-to-pick ingredients.

Plan for Light & Air

To maximize the hours you can spend using — and enjoying — your outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to plan for varying levels of light.

Provide storage space

Working in an outdoor kitchen can be a challenge if you lack spots to stash everyday necessities. If you’re not close to your interior kitchen, make sure to include cabinets or a cart to store grilling tools, utensils, plates, and serving pieces.